Mr. Muid's Blog

Monday, February 18, 2013

Creative People To Watch in Malaysia for 2013 via Behance Network

Ladies and gentlemen, Behance Malaysia Ambassador present; 'Creative People to Watch in Malaysia for 2013 on Behance Network'.

The list provided here are randomly discovered through 'most viewed', 'most featured', 'most appreciated','most recent' or simply randomly discovered by clicks from Behance Malaysia Ambassador, Muid Latif. The numbers does not reflect ranking but a matter of reference, in case anyone ask which one is yours, instead of bullet point. Thanks!

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The Behance portfolio feature compiled by Muid Latif, a renowned New Media Artist, Behance Official Ambassador™ of Malaysia, Official Adobe Influencer™ (Malaysia), Lead Project of Creative Commons Malaysia and Certified 'N.O.S.S 2012 & 2013 Creative Industry Expert' by MSC Malaysia.

Visit Muid's portfolio http://www.behance.net/muidlatif & www.moedlatif.com

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Note: The portfolio orders that are featured in this blog are randomly discovered and it's on-going. If you're not on Behance, it's time to do so by registering your free Behance portfolio today! Talk to me via twitter if you like to have your Behance portfolio featured as I'd be happy to promote. Thanks!

Follow Muid on Twitter: www.twitter.com/muidlatif & Behance Malaysia Twitter: www.twitter.com/BehanceMalaysia

Sunday, December 09, 2012

Let's Legally Download: The Best of Malaysian Music on iTunes Store

If any of my friend would ask, who are the among Malaysian artist I currently listen to, besides going to local record store to purchase CD or buy from online? I have lots, since some of them are my friends who I had the privilege to work with or met:

Here are my recommended albums available from iTunes Store, and guys, show some love to them by supporting our local Music:

Sudirman - Terunggul > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/terunggul/id323523340
Note: The late (Arwahyarham), Sudirman is the one and only legendary to break through records with his outstanding showmanship. He is indeed the Malaysian version of Michael Jackson, too young to die, yet his music lives in each and every one of us. He's the definition of big brother of unity in Malaysia
Malaysian legendary Queen of Jazz, Sheila Majid
http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/sheila-majid/id42422788
Note: She is now, then and forever... a mega superstar, an ultimate graceful star in the Malaysian Music Industry. Never in my playlist I miss out any of her song especially the songs from 'Emosi', and the highly anticipated album produced by my fav, fav producer, Roslan Aziz, 'Ratu' especially 'Embun' with Nathan East on bass.
The legendary, Zainal Abidin - Terang... Sang (1995) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/terang...sang/id214981104
Alleycats - Koleksi Perdana 20 Hits > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/no.1-koleksi-perdana-20-hits/id539875377
Note: They are the most amazing legendary group ever, like the Earth, Wind and Fire.
M.Nasir - No. 1 Dulu dan Kini > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/no.1-dulu-dan-kini-m.nasir/id457336249
Note: M. Nasir is one of the most admirable, respectful talented Malaysian musician/producer of all time. Every music that he produces/produced for local recording artist will always turn best song or a hit.
Najwa (Mahiaddin) - Innocent Soul (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/innocent-soul/id542102156
Note: Her amazing soulful vocal reminds me of Faith Evans. She's international!
Poetic Ammo, the best Rap group in the late 90's, early 2000.
'The World Is Yours' is one of my fav (2001) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/the-world-is-yours/id324948618
'Monay, Monay' (Single) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/monay-monay-single/id42430381
'Everything Changes' Feat. Lady D (Single, 2004) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/everything-changes-feat.-lady/id323734039
Ferhad (Best Singles on iTunes) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/ferhad/id42430601
Note: Ferhad is energetic, creative and awesomely inspiring. Privileged to work with him on his website project (his first album 'Tubed').
3 Suara (2012) - Jacyln Victor, Ning Baizura, Shila Amzah > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/3-suara/id545207890
Anuar Zain (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/anuar-zain/id539501609
Note: He's the brother to the talented Malaysian Pop Diva, Ziana Zain. Anuar is a legendary male singer and enjoyed listening to his previous album produced by my fav Indonesian young producer/composer, Andi Rianto.
Ziana Zain - Best Of (1998) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/best-of-ziana-zain/id537603628
Note: Malaysian Queen of Pop, she's one of the best hardworking and best-selling female, and her humbleness and random jokes on stage made me enjoy her show.
Siti Nurhaliza - All Your Love (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/all-your-love/id466626765
Note: The only english album by Siti Nurhaliza which I thought it was good. The cover art was designed by a good friend of mine, Shazwan Taib ('Boy'). Nevertheless, Siti is a sweetheart, she is one of the most humblest person I met and she have such a big heart.
Ning Baizura > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/ning-baizura/id5522802
Note: She's one of person who I frequently chat via social media and worked before few years back with Pete Teo/Yasmin Ahmad 'Malaysian Artistes For Unity' project. Ning is one of the most influential, hardworking songstress female Malaysian artist to this date. She's legendary, and an amazing diva. You gotta' love her.
Nora - Hikmah EP (2012) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/hikmah-ep/id556472345
Note: I consider Nora as a big sister, she's a darling and she's inspirational. Her husband, Johan Nawawi is one of the most respected Malaysian producer I look up to and privileged to work with him before.
Innuendo - BrandNuendo (2001) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/brandnuendo/id282190246
Note: Malaysian only best R&B group, which reminds me of Jodeci.
Too Phat - Whutthadilly? (1999) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/whutthadilly/id39325985
Altimet - Syukur (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/syukur-single/id545585111
Note: One of my fav from Altimet with samples from Sudirman 'Nilai Cintamu', occasionally hang out with Altimet and the CIGARAGA fellas (Cigar group: Kruel, JSadiq, Zeffri, CityBash, Khalids, Rafai, YouTiub)
Joe Flizzow - President (2010) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/president/id545585627
Note: Who doesn't know about local-international; Too Phat who had been collaborating with Warren G, Talib Kweli and other renown international rappers.
Mizz Nina - Takeover (2012) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/takeover/id530186414
Note: Met her few times, she emerged and re-invented herself fantastically and she's a part of the notable Malaysian Rap group, Teh Tarik Crew.
Made Men (Compilation) by Kartel Records (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/made-men/id542102748
Note: The most sick production of Malaysian hip-hop music production, crystal-clear materials and beats. Highly recommended.
Dave Andrew > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/dave-andrew/id274599835
Note: Man, I'm a big fan of Dave Andrew's works especially 'Cahaya' from Under The Influence album. Experimental contemporary jazz and everything else, the man is a dynamite!
Ash Nair - Chameleon (2006) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/chameleon/id579358490
OAG > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/oag/id45574441
Note: The awesome, OAG. They are the most legendary alternative rock band ever in Malaysia. They are revolutionary!
Compilation: 'The Heart of Hymns' by (the notable) Aubrey Suwito,
Note: This album is top notch, flawless music production, the ONLY Gospel music album I recommend for Christian listeners > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/the-heart-of-hymns/id576978381
Damn Dirty Apes - The Apes of Wrath (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/the-apes-of-wrath/id497490313
Dennis Lau, one of best and talented Malaysian violinist ever. http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/dennis-lau/id336207467
Imran Ajmain - Dikalung Kasihan (Single, 2012) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/dikalung-kasihan-single/id565644173
Note: Imran is an talented singer and a good friend of mine. He's highly creative and love his passion in arts. He's humble and the most attentive recording artist who interacts often with his fans on social media platform.
Zee Avi > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/zee-avi/id295071694
Note: Her vocals are flawless and proud to have her representing Malaysia in the international music industry.
Freedom - 'Bermulanya Di Sini (Single) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/mulanya-di-sini-single/id47347340
Note: The best (repeat, the BEST) oldschool harmonious Malaysian ballad.
Couldn't find Nabil Zamanhuri on iTunes except for his collaboration with DJ Fuzz. Nabil is an awesome choreographer, dancer and creative guy. http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/dreamin-feat.-nabil-zamanhuri/id671200647?i=671200913

The rest I could not find on iTunes store (Malaysia) are highly talented Yuna, Sister of Malaysian Jazz, Atilia Haron and Queen of R&B, Liza Aziz. Listen to 'Tak Rela' on YouTube. Also couldn't find Noryn Aziz on iTunes :(. Even my favorite neo-soul local jazz band, Bassment Syndicate is not on iTunes and looking forward to see their album in here soon. Check out their music: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7TLkZXDnPA

Now, enjoy online shopping, downloading and listening.

- Muid Latif

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Designer's Survival Kit Part II

Written by Muid Latif, Certified Malaysia's National Creative Expert and Ambassador to Behance Malaysia

According to Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia, Ministry of Human Resource, our employment rates had only decrease 0.1% percent compared to last year, 2011. As of 2012, our employment rates is 3.1%. However, we're not as critical compared to countries such as United States which is 8.9%, 7.2% from Philippines, 4.6% from Japan and highest so far is in Spain which is 21.7%, according to 2011 Unemployment Statistics from Eurostat.

Throughout my encounters during conducting job interviews for creative job applications, most likely local interns, post-graduates, and jobless graduates are struggling to get hired for full time employment due to:

Lack of Communication Skills
Lack of Basic Soft skill
Lack or no industrial experiences or internship background
Demand high salary expectation even during internship
Turn up late for job interviews
Incapable to meet datelines and manage their roles and responsibilities
Influenced by stereotype-minded parents who influenced their children on the way they see things with prejudice
Ignorant to any form of industrial awareness (for example, did not attend or support any free-based events from art and design exhibitions in local galleries, refuse to attend workshops due to fear of budget constrains, did not appear in any conferences, talks or seminars in order to gain knowledge, and et cetera)
Most important, obnoxiously stubborn and full of pride
Have a narrow minded and emotionally defensive for any critics or feedback on their work
Big potential talent equal to unwanted big prima-donna attitudes
'Character Suicidal' in their CV/Resume. You are intentionally inviting your future employers or interview to analyze and evaluate your character based on how you write your CV or Resume (format of writing resume is crucial). For example, redundant hobbies, fancy email addresses like 'babyrina_comel[at]yahoo.com' or 'penjejak-awan85[at]yahoo.com', inappropriate photo (profile) shots that doesn't look appealing or TOO obvious (Imagine, Bon Qui Qui, I'm not going to hire any 'out-of-the-hood-program'). I'm definitely not going to hire an employee or candidates that could potentially terrify my current or potential future clients and stake holders.

Their unwillingness to project a good mentality decreases and few major factor that contributes to jobless Malaysians are lack of self-dependent in knowledge development skills and expect to be spoon-feed by former or current lecturers or employers.

More disappointing, even I had encountered few under-graduates who express condescending attitude to project a good designers intelligence. Have absolutely zero marketing strategy to promote themselves. Even if we have an overall of talented creative individuals, what kills them with unemployment rates are because of these above factor. Their unwillingness to multi-task, unwillingness to become multidiscipline and always into their own comfort zone, expect to be treated like a superstar when their talent are not highly equally complement to their creative works.

In the past, I had hired and call many designers for job interviews and in general, they lack of understanding:

Employer's or client's nature of business
Unorganized portfolio packaging & marketing
No communication skills for jobs or internship applications
Ignorant to utilize online platform to establish and market their talent such as putting their creative works via online through great free based portfolio website such as Behance.net or have no Jobstreet.com account to begin with
Their CV or resume does not convince any employer or interviewer due to lack of interest to polish themselves gracefully in professional manner. Imagine, I have to go through a CV that does not provide Referrals, Soft skills, Qualification in both education and experience or achievement to impress us.
Unable to take direction or brief well through good understanding and misinterpret or assume things based on hypothesis or without solid research and development
Appearance in job interviews must also take into account. I came accross those who came for interviews wearing inappropriate t-shirt and sandals. We're not a disco club or a gig, nor we are not a modeling agency. (Jangan overdress or wear some death metal black shirt and wear boots)
Knowledge became an option to them and overshadowed by their defeatist attitude such as 'quarreling' or debate with job interviewers about their personal opinion and express dissatisfaction on the spot. Remember, this is not a forum, it's your job interview and key of impression is also being evaluated.
(For example, "Encik, maaf saya tak reti cakap English. Kita ni Melayu, boleh tak kita cakap bahasa Melayu' or they start to question 'why are most people in this company have only one race, sir?'). Attitude people! I don't welcome racial profiling. I hire TALENT equal to your capability and ability to perform and contribute to a company or agency. That's why candidates should learn the nature of our business or our practice before attending job interviews.

So in the end, they start fiercely blaming our government and private sector that does not support the industry but apparently, it's their unwillingness to showcase a good creative persona and attitude, no determination and lack of understanding the nature of future clients or employers are the source to their career suicide.

Both government and private sector offers grants, scholarships and opportunities to all of us. According to the Malaysia's Graduate Job Placement Statistics and Non Graduates Statistics in 2012, we offer 33,473 job placement and 105,535 job placement.

So it makes me wonder, why do we have such unbelievable condescending mentality and negative attitude to empower ourselves creatively to become a better, creative professionals?

Interested to read Part 1 of Designer's Survival Kit? Click here.

Notice: Kindly credit my name and my references for any of external publication or quote to your thesis, R&D, article in any online or offline media. Writer's point of view does not reflect current position in any company and it's based on past experiences and encounters. Thank you

Thursday, September 13, 2012

How does one measure success?

I came across a tweet by an American writer, Richard D. Walker (who had instantly became a good virtual friend). He tweeted: "Successful people solve more problems than they create. Unsuccessful people create more problems than they solve. Which one are you?"

It makes me curious. How does one define success? How does one measure success?

My interpretation of success is very up front. Being successful does not measure by a 'stereotype' high standards of high economical status but being emotionally and physically contented.

When one person is contented followed by great maturity through great leadership and wisdom, you are successful. Even if a children who can create a science project with good result without fully depend on their teachers or parents, they are most likely a successful person because they foresee vision of success. They are in control of their success because of their will and determination. In fact, what makes a person successful is about taking responsibility and accountability to produce great result.

For example, if a fishermen who can support and manages a family, have a loving wife and capable of bringing up his children with proper education, would he already become a successful person? Yes.

If we are single, able to support our parents or family financially, have a stable career, perform charity or 'zakat' (alms), free from mountains of financial debts, have less drama in our lives, moreover surrounded by people who constantly shower us affections and encouragements, would we achieve success? Indeed, we are successful.

Furthermore, I second to what Richard had mention about 'unsuccessful people create more problems than they solve'. If one fail to comprehend being successful with the right attitude, great wisdom and a good persona, would they become unsuccessful?

What happens if you have a big house, a great career yet discontented with no one at home, a wife nor children who aren't attentive to shower you affection, to listen to you when you feel down, thus leaving you in solitude and insecurity, do we define ourselves successful?

If one person, for example, have an obnoxious attitude, threatening and demoralizing others by making their lives difficult, would that create more tension, stress and add more problems than becoming a person who can tolerate to provide a solution, would he or she define themselves as a successful person?

So which one are we?

Richard D. Walker is the author of 'It's My Life! I Can Change If I Want To' and the book is available on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Its-Life-Can-Change-Want/dp/0578074214/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t and follow his twitter at http://twitter.com/WalkerRichard

Mr. Muid's Blog

Monday, February 18, 2013

Creative People To Watch in Malaysia for 2013 via Behance Network

Sunday, December 09, 2012

Let's Legally Download: The Best of Malaysian Music on iTunes Store

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Designer's Survival Kit Part II

Thursday, September 13, 2012

How does one measure success?

About Me

Portfolio & Downloads

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Mr. Muid's Blog

Monday, February 18, 2013

Creative People To Watch in Malaysia for 2013 via Behance Network

Sunday, December 09, 2012

Let's Legally Download: The Best of Malaysian Music on iTunes Store

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Designer's Survival Kit Part II

Thursday, September 13, 2012

How does one measure success?

About Me

Portfolio & Downloads

Twitter

Family & Friends

Coffee Chillout

Vimeo

(mt) hosting rocks!

Blog Archive

Followers

Subscribe To

Disclaimer